Balint Groups

From the Mission Statement: "The ABS strives to promote and encourage increased participation in Balint group work"

What is a Balint Group?

A Balint group is a group of clinicians who meet regularly to present clinical cases in order to improve and to better understand the clinician-patient relationship. It focuses on enhancing the clinician’s ability to connect with and care for the patient sustainably.

A session begins with a member's presenting a case for the group to discuss. During the facilitated discussion, the group members uncover different and new perceptions about the patient's and clinician’s feelings and their experiences with each other.

A Balint group usually has two leaders who facilitate the process. The success of a group depends on its members being honest, respectful, and supportive of divergent opinions. The content of the group is confidential. A Balint group may meet for months or years, and group cohesion and trust develop over time.

Balint Online: Decreasing isolation through peer consultation

Balint Online groups are led by ABS Credentialed Leaders and are open to members nationally and internationally. As live, face-to-face activities they may offer Category I CME through the AAFP and APA-approved CE for psychologists.

Using online videoconferencing software, with HIPPA-compliant security, makes this type of Balint group affordable and accessible.